The Rose of Avalanche

The Rose of Avalanche

The Rose of Avalanche is a British gothic rock and post-punk group from Leeds, England, active from 1985 to 1992. The original line-up forms in 1985 with Phil Morris, Paul James Berry and Alan Davis. The band name combines “rose” and “avalanche” as a way of expressing both beauty and power in the music.

Early releases and label changes

Before the band plays its first gig, it signs to the Leeds independent label LiL and issues two singles, “LA Rain” and “Goddess”. Both singles reach number 1 in the UK Independent Chart, and “LA Rain” appears in John Peel’s Festive 50 for 1985. The band also receives support from John Peel, which helps establish its early profile. After this first period, Fire Records signs the group and the line-up changes.

Classic line-up and later recordings

The best-known line-up consists of Phil Morris, Paul James Berry, Glenn Schultz, Nicol McKay and Mark Thompson. This version of the band appears as a support act on The Mission’s 1986/87 World Crusade Tour, giving it wider exposure. In this period the group releases five more singles and its first official studio album, Never Another Sunset, in 1989.

After Schultz and McKay leave in 1989, Darren Horner joins on bass. This line-up records the EP A Peace Inside. Further changes follow in 1990 when Thompson leaves and Andy Porter replaces him. The final line-up then releases the EP String A Beads in 1990 and the album ICE in 1991. The band splits in 1992.

Later activity

Paul James Berry continues with solo work, while Glenn and Mark are active with The Pact. Andy Porter is listed among the band’s members.